The Gustavus Symphony Orchestra at the Great Wall of China.
The Gustavus Adolphus College Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Warren Friesen, is currently in the middle of a 15-day (Jan. 18 to Feb.1) international concert tour of China.
This is a return trip to China for the 67-member symphony orchestra. The 2004 tour was deemed such a successful learning opportunity for the group, a decision was made to return to the most populous country in the world.
The tradition of concert touring by the music ensembles at Gustavus was established as early as 1878 for the musical, artistic, and educational benefit of the student members. Extended domestic and international tours are a unique feature at Gustavus. These tours are combined with a specially designed companion course to provide an interdisciplinary perspective for the students, develop increased cultural awareness, promote a more diverse student body, and build cross-cultural bridges.
The ensemble will perform five concerts during the tour and also visit popular tourist attractions that hold cultural and educational value. At a recent visit to the Great Wall of China, the touring members performed a rendition of the Gustie Rouser. That video can be viewed here:
Upon its return from China, the orchestra will perform a home concert at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17 in Christ Chapel. The concert is free and open to the public.